Willie Faloon signs two-year contract extension with Connacht

Willie Faloon: 'Since I arrived here, I've been made feel so welcome by the lads and supporters alike'

Willie Faloon has put pen to paper on a two-year extension with Connacht Rugby and the IRFU, bringing his contract up to the summer of 2016.

The 27-year-old joined Connacht from neighbouring province Ulster at the start of the 2012/13 season.

The openside flanker earned his first Ireland Wolfhound cap and scored a try against Scotland 'A' in 2011 and played England Saxons the same year.

Voted Ulster Academy Player of the Year in 2009, he won the AIB Cup with his native Ballynahinch and went on to earn his first Heineken Cup cap with Ulster away to Stade Francais in the same year.

With Connacht, he has built a reputation as an abrasive ball-carrier and his work rate across the park has been phenomenal.

Faloon said today: "I'm delighted to be playing in Connacht for another two years. Since I arrived here, I've been made feel so welcome by the lads and supporters alike."

"We've seen what he can do and his experience and work-rate adds an exciting dimension to our gameplay" - Pat Lam

"Getting regular game time has been fantastic for me. I love working with Pat (Lam) and Dan (McFarland) and the other coaches and I'm constantly challenged in new ways which is helping my game.

"Obviously it's extremely disappointing to be injured, but I still feel very much a part of the team and am actively involved in analysis and team meetings. Right now, I am working hard with the physio Gavin (Malouf) and the conditioning staff to come back improved as soon as possible."

Connacht Head Coach Pat Lam added: "This is another fantastic boost for the club. Willie is an exceptional player for Connacht and a great person off the field too.

"He is an important member of our squad and part of a very strong pack here. We've seen what he can do and his experience and work-rate adds an exciting dimension to our gameplay.

"I know Willie has been frustrated with his injury early this season but he is continuing to work hard on the development of his game and we look forward to having him back stronger in the coming months and for the seasons ahead."